"Doc, my teeth are shaky but they don’t hurt, can I leave them alone?"

The title is a common question that often reveals a hidden danger lurking in many of our patients’ mouths: periodontitis, commonly known as gum disease. Despite its painless nature, ignoring shaky teeth can lead to severe consequences. Let's explore why leaving periodontitis unchecked or untreated is not a wise choice.

False Sense of Security: Periodontitis, a progressive gum disease, is often referred to as a silent killer in the dental industry. Unlike tooth decay, which can cause noticeable pain or sensitivity, periodontitis typically advances without causing much immediate discomfort. This silent progression often lulls people into a false sense of security, leading them to neglect addressing the underlying issue. Just because there is no pain, does not mean there is no problem. Eventually, this debilitating disease will lead to…

Loss of Ability to Eat and Speak: One of the hallmark signs of periodontitis is bone loss around the teeth. As the disease progresses, the supporting jawbone weakens, causing teeth to become loose or shaky. While these shaky teeth may not cause pain initially, ignoring this sign can result in further looseness leading to tooth loss, and even swellings around the lower jaw. It should go without saying that less teeth means less ability to eat and speak, in turn this may cause poorer nutritional intake and lower confidence in social settings.

The Longer the Delay, the Higher the Cost: A crucial aspect often overlooked is the financial impact of delaying treatment for periodontitis. The longer the condition is left untreated, the more extensive and costly the treatment becomes. Simple measures like regular dental cleanings and early intervention can help prevent or slow down the progression of periodontitis. However, if left unchecked, advanced stages may require complex procedures like surgical debridement, extractions, bone grafting, or tooth replacement options like dental implants. These treatments not only incur a significant financial cost but also involve additional time and discomfort for the patient.

Don't underestimate the silent threat that is periodontitis. Addressing shaky teeth promptly can prevent further damage, preserve your chewing and speech, and save you from costly treatments down the road. It’s no longer only about your smile, it’s also about your lifestyle.